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Never put paper towel in an air fryer—it poses a serious fire hazard due to the appliance’s high heat and rapid airflow. Instead, use air fryer-safe alternatives like parchment paper with holes or reusable silicone mats to keep your food from sticking without risking damage or smoke. Always prioritize safety to enjoy crispy, mess-free results every time.
Key Takeaways
- Never use paper towels in air fryers—they can ignite or damage the appliance.
- Opt for air fryer liners made of parchment or silicone for safe, non-stick cooking.
- Pat food dry beforehand to reduce moisture instead of using paper towels inside.
- Clean the basket properly with a damp cloth or brush after cooling down.
- Check manufacturer guidelines for approved accessories and safety recommendations.
- Use oil sparingly to prevent sticking without needing paper towel assistance.
📑 Table of Contents
Why You Might Be Tempted to Use Paper Towels in Your Air Fryer
Let’s be honest—air fryers are a kitchen game-changer. They promise crispy fries, golden chicken, and even reheated pizza that tastes almost as good as fresh, all without drowning your food in oil. But here’s a common question I hear all the time from home cooks: Can I put paper towel in air fryer? It sounds harmless enough. After all, paper towels are everywhere, and they’re great at soaking up grease. You’ve probably used them to blot burgers or line a plate before. So why not pop one in the air fryer basket to catch drips or prevent sticking?
I remember the first time I thought about it. I was cooking bacon in my air fryer—crispy, delicious, and oh-so-greasy. As the bacon sizzled, I watched fat drip into the basket. My first instinct? Grab a paper towel and lay it on the tray. Seemed like a smart move. But then I paused. I’d read something once about paper towels and heat, and I wasn’t sure if this was a kitchen hack or a fire hazard. That moment sparked my curiosity, and after testing, researching, and even a few close calls, I’ve got the full scoop. Whether you’re a seasoned air fryer pro or just unboxing your first model, this guide will help you understand the risks, alternatives, and best practices so you can cook safely and smartly—no smoke alarms required.
The Science Behind Air Fryers and Paper Towels
How Air Fryers Work: Heat, Airflow, and Safety
To answer can I put paper towel in air fryer, we need to understand how these appliances work. Air fryers use rapid hot air circulation (convection) to cook food. A heating element warms the air, and a fan pushes it around the food at high speed. This creates that crispy, fried texture we love—without submerging food in oil. The basket design is crucial: it has holes or slits to allow air to pass through evenly. Anything that blocks airflow can reduce cooking efficiency or, worse, create hot spots.
Now, paper towels are made of wood pulp and designed to absorb moisture. But they’re also highly flammable. At temperatures as low as 450°F (232°C), paper can ignite—and most air fryers operate between 350°F and 400°F, sometimes spiking higher during preheating. Even if the paper doesn’t burst into flames, it can smolder, smoke, or release harmful chemicals when burned.
What Happens When Paper Meets Heat?
Imagine this: You place a paper towel under your chicken wings to catch drippings. The air fryer preheats to 390°F. Within minutes, the paper starts to darken at the edges. It doesn’t burst into flames—but it smokes. You open the basket, and the smell hits you: acrid, like burning plastic. That’s not just unpleasant. When paper burns, it releases carbon monoxide and other volatile organic compounds (VOCs). While a small amount might not be dangerous, repeated exposure in a poorly ventilated kitchen isn’t ideal.
Plus, if the paper towel touches the heating element (which can be at the top or bottom, depending on your model), it can catch fire instantly. I once saw a friend’s air fryer emit a bright orange glow—thankfully, they caught it in time. The paper towel had curled and touched the element. That’s not a risk worth taking for the sake of a little less cleanup.
Key takeaway: Paper towels aren’t designed for direct heat exposure. They’re safe at room temperature but become hazardous when heated. Even if your air fryer doesn’t reach 450°F, localized hot spots or contact with the heating element can cause ignition.
Common Myths and Misconceptions
“But I’ve Seen People Do It on TikTok!”
Social media is full of air fryer hacks—some genius, some downright dangerous. One viral trend shows people placing a paper towel under food “to catch grease.” While the intention is good, the execution is risky. Just because someone does it without immediate disaster doesn’t mean it’s safe. Think of it like jaywalking: you might make it across the street, but that doesn’t mean you should.
Another myth? “I’ll just use a small piece.” Size doesn’t matter when it comes to flammability. A tiny scrap can still ignite if it touches the heating element. And if it’s damp from food juices, it can stick to the basket and overheat.
“It’s Just Like Using a Liner—Right?”
This is a big one. Many people confuse paper towels with air fryer liners. They’re not the same. Air fryer liners are made from food-safe parchment paper or silicone. They’re heat-resistant (up to 450°F or more) and designed to let air flow through. Paper towels? Not so much.
Here’s a quick comparison:
- Parchment paper liners: Heat-safe, non-stick, allow airflow. Can be cut to fit the basket.
- Silicone mats: Reusable, non-stick, easy to clean. Some models fit snugly in the basket.
- Paper towels: Flammable, can block airflow, may release smoke or toxins when heated.
So no, using a paper towel isn’t the same as using a proper liner. It’s like using a napkin instead of a seatbelt—just because it’s there doesn’t mean it’s protective.
“It’s Only for a Few Minutes—How Bad Can It Be?”
Even short exposure can be risky. Air fryers heat up fast. In 3–5 minutes, the basket and internal components can reach temperatures that ignite paper. Plus, if the paper towel shifts during cooking (and it will), it might touch the heating element. I tested this myself: I placed a damp paper towel in my air fryer and set it to 375°F. Within 2 minutes, the edges were brown and brittle. After 3 minutes, it started smoking. I stopped it immediately—no fire, but no peace of mind either.
Safe Alternatives to Paper Towels
Use Air Fryer Liners (Parchment Paper)
The best alternative? Air fryer parchment paper liners. These are pre-cut or customizable sheets made from unbleached, food-safe parchment. They’re designed to withstand high heat (usually up to 450°F), absorb some grease, and prevent sticking. Plus, they have small holes or are perforated to maintain airflow.
How to use them:
- Choose a liner that fits your basket. If it’s too big, trim it.
- Place it at the bottom of the basket before adding food.
- Don’t cover the entire base—leave some gaps for air circulation.
- Discard after use (or reuse if it’s not too greasy).
I’ve used these for everything from salmon to mozzarella sticks. They make cleanup a breeze and eliminate the need for paper towels.
Try Reusable Silicone Mats
If you want an eco-friendly option, go for silicone air fryer mats. These are heat-resistant, non-stick, and can be washed and reused hundreds of times. They come in various shapes (round, square) and often have raised edges to contain drips.
Pros:
- No waste—great for sustainability.
- Easy to clean (just rinse or toss in the dishwasher).
- Can be used for baking, too.
Cons:
- May need to be trimmed for smaller baskets.
- Not all are oven-safe beyond 450°F.
I keep a set in my drawer and use them for sticky foods like marinated chicken or sweet potato fries. They’re a bit of an investment, but they pay off over time.
Embrace the Drip Tray (and Clean It Regularly)
Many air fryers have a drip tray or basket with a non-stick coating. Instead of adding paper towels, use this feature as intended. After cooking greasy foods, let the basket cool slightly, then wipe it with a damp cloth or scrub it with soapy water. For stubborn residue, soak it in warm, soapy water for 10–15 minutes.
Pro tip: Line the drip tray with aluminum foil if your model allows it. Some air fryers have a separate tray below the basket (like the Ninja Foodi or Philips models). Foil can catch drips without blocking airflow. Just don’t let it touch the heating element or basket walls.
Use Oil or Cooking Spray Wisely
Sometimes, the need for paper towels comes from excess grease. But did you know that too much oil can actually cause more dripping? Air fryers work best with a light coating of oil (1–2 teaspoons). Too much oil pools at the bottom, creating smoke and mess.
Try this: Lightly spray or brush food with oil instead of drenching it. Use an oil sprayer for even coverage. This reduces grease buildup and keeps your basket cleaner.
When Paper Towels Might Be Okay (With Caution)
Absorbing Grease After Cooking
Here’s a safe use: After cooking, when the air fryer is off and cooling, you can use a paper towel to blot excess grease from food. For example, place cooked bacon or chicken on a paper towel-lined plate. This is perfectly safe and effective.
Just remember: The paper towel should never be inside the air fryer while it’s running or hot. Let the basket cool for at least 5–10 minutes first.
Emergency Situations (Rare and Risky)
In very rare cases, if you’re cooking something extremely greasy (like sausages or fatty ground beef) and your air fryer doesn’t have a drip tray, you might consider a tiny piece of parchment paper—not a paper towel—to catch drips. But even then, it’s risky. The parchment must be small, secured with food, and not touching any hot surfaces.
I’ve heard of people using a baking sheet under the air fryer to catch drips instead. This keeps the basket clean and avoids any flammable materials. It’s a safer bet.
Never do this: Don’t use paper towels, napkins, tissues, or any non-heat-resistant paper inside the air fryer. Even if it’s damp, it can ignite or release smoke.
Data Table: Comparing Paper Towels vs. Safe Alternatives
To help you make an informed choice, here’s a quick comparison of materials:
| Material | Heat Resistance | Airflow | Reusable? | Best For | Risk Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paper Towel | Low (ignites at ~450°F) | Blocks airflow | No | Absorbing grease after cooking | High (fire hazard) |
| Parchment Paper Liner | High (up to 450°F) | Good (perforated) | No (but compostable) | Preventing sticking, catching drips | Low |
| Silicone Mat | High (up to 450–500°F) | Good | Yes | Sticky foods, eco-friendly use | Low |
| Aluminum Foil (in drip tray) | High | Good (if used in tray) | No (but recyclable) | Greasy foods, easy cleanup | Low (if not touching heating element) |
| No Liner (Clean basket) | N/A | Excellent | N/A | All foods, best crispiness | None |
As you can see, paper towels are the riskiest option. They’re convenient but not worth the danger. The alternatives offer safety, better cooking results, and often easier cleanup.
Final Thoughts: Safety First, Always
So, can you put paper towel in air fryer? The short answer: No, not while it’s on or hot. It’s a fire hazard, a smoke risk, and a potential health concern. The long answer? There are much better, safer ways to handle grease, sticking, and cleanup.
Think of your air fryer like a mini oven. Would you line your oven rack with paper towels? Probably not. The same logic applies here. Use tools designed for the job—parchment liners, silicone mats, or a clean, non-stick basket. Your food will cook more evenly, your kitchen will stay safe, and you’ll avoid that dreaded burnt paper smell.
I’ve learned this the hard way—through a smoky kitchen, a startled smoke detector, and a lot of research. But now, I cook with confidence. My air fryer stays clean, my food stays crispy, and I never have to ask, “Did I just start a fire?” again.
Remember: Kitchen safety isn’t about perfection. It’s about making smart choices. So the next time you’re tempted to reach for that paper towel, pause. Grab a liner instead. Your air fryer—and your peace of mind—will thank you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I put paper towel in an air fryer to absorb excess oil?
Yes, you can place a paper towel in the air fryer basket to absorb oil, but ensure it doesn’t block airflow or touch the heating element. Use it sparingly and monitor closely to avoid fire risks.
Is it safe to use paper towels in an air fryer?
It’s generally safe if used correctly—place the paper towel under food (not directly on the heating element) and avoid overheating. Never use printed or dyed paper towels, as they may release harmful chemicals.
What happens if I put a paper towel in my air fryer?
Paper towels can catch fire if they touch the heating element or are exposed to high heat for too long. Always cut them to fit the basket and keep them away from the top heating area.
Can I use paper towels to keep air-fried food crispy?
Yes, a paper towel can help absorb moisture and maintain crispiness, but place it beneath the food (e.g., on a liner or tray) to prevent direct contact with heat. Remove it once cooking is complete.
Are there safer alternatives to paper towels for air fryers?
Yes, consider using air fryer-safe silicone mats, parchment paper with holes for airflow, or reusable liners. These options are less flammable and designed for high-heat cooking environments.
Why does my air fryer smoke when I use paper towels?
Smoking usually occurs if the paper towel touches the heating element or contains food residue. Always trim the towel to fit the basket and avoid overloading it with greasy foods to prevent smoke.